[Blunt abdominal trauma in childhood. Value of conventional radiologic and ultrasound diagnosis].

In blunt abdominal trauma in children, the basic diagnostic work-up should include, in addition to history, physical examination, routine laboratory and X-ray studies, ultrasound and color Doppler ultrasonography. With these methods, most lesions can be identified both in the acute phase and in follow-up. They are also helpful to decide if surgery is indicated or if conservative management is justified. The diagnostic hallmarks of the most common organ lesions are summarized. Additional imaging studies, e.g. CT, angiography, or MRI, should be reserved for specific questions.